[SML] Room limits

[Jerry Durand]

18 inches of width per seat including arms?  I've flown on that airline!

On 6/3/19 9:40 AM, Bill Conner via Stagecraft wrote:
> Here are some values and text from 2015 IBC.  Life Safety Code is
> pretty similar:  (note that "net" menas net sq ft per occupant)
>
> "Assembly with fixed seats See Section 1004.4
>
> Assembly without fixed seats:
>   Concentrated (chairs only—not fixed)  7 net
>   Standing space 5 net
>   Unconcentrated (tables and chairs)  15 net
>
> Stages and platforms 15 net"
>
> And here is text from 1004.4:
>
> "1004.4 Fixed seating. For areas having fixed seats and aisles, the
> occupant load shall be determined by the number of fixed seats
> installed therein. The occupant load for areas in which fixed seating
> is not installed, such as waiting spaces, shall be determined in
> accordance with Section 1004.1.2 and added to the number of fixed
> seats. The occupant load of wheelchair spaces and the associated
> companion seat shall be based on one occupant for each wheelchair
> space and one occupant for the associated companion seat provided in
> accordance with Section 1108.2.3. For areas having fixed seating
> without dividing arms, the occupant load shall be not less than the
> number of seats based on one person for each 18 inches (457 mm) of
> seating length. The occupant load of seating booths shall be based on
> one person for each 24 inches (610 mm) of booth seat length measured
> at the backrest of the seating booth."
>
> Lastly:
>
> "1004.2 Increased occupant load. The occupant load permitted in any
> building, or portion thereof, is permitted to be increased from that
> number established for the occupancies in Table 1004.1.2, provided
> that all other requirements of the code are met based on such modified
> number and the occupant load does not exceed one occupant per 7 square
> feet (0.65 m2) of occupiable floor space. Where required by the
> building official, an approved aisle, seating or fixed equipment
> diagram substantiating any increase in occupant load shall be
> submitted. Where required by the building official, such diagram shall
> be posted."
>
> The code does require you add the occupant loads of each space.  Also
> keep in mind this is all primarily to determine the minimum number of
> and aggregate clear width of means of egress.  Its assumed that if the
> plan and building was approved that a 1500 sq ft stage has adequate
> egress for 100 people.  Most codes only assembly areas are required to
> be posted.  But I can also tell you that having heard this issue
> discussed by building and fire service officials, designers, and
> owners, the interpretations vary.  And fatalities in assembly spaces
> are often due to  overcrowding.  So as Steve says, ultimately up to
> the local authorities, but at least you have some of the numbers.
>
> Standing room was mentioned.  On my seating drawings I show potential
> standing room "spaces" on my plans when called for so that it can be
> approved in plan review and included on the posting.  It the best way
> to document it I know of.
>
>
>

-- 
Jerry Durand, Durand Interstellar, Inc.
www.DurandInterstellar.com
tel: +1 408 356-3886
@DurandInterstel